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On 16 February 2019 at the Munich Security Conference, the European Leadership Network (ELN) and the Federation of German Industries (BDI) hosted a high-level closed roundtable breakfast under the co-chairmanship of BDI President Prof. Dieter Kempf and ELN Chairman Lord Browne.

Lord Browne and Prof. Kempf

Following up on the successful ELN-BDI side-event to the 2018 MSC, this year’s event matured the debate on European strategic autonomy and looked at implications for the defence industry. Participants came mainly from Germany, France, the United Kingdom, the EU institutions, NATO and European defence industry. They shared their visions and practical judgements about the art of the possible in terms of the future politics and economics of strategic autonomy.

Opening remarks were given by Mr Dirk Hoke, CEO of Airbus Defence and Space; Mr Camille Grand, NATO Assistant Secretary General for Defence Investment; and Mr Andrew Winternitz, Principal Director for Europe and NATO Policy at United States Department of Defense.

Mr Winternitz, Mr Hoke and Mr Grand

Both organisations are grateful for the outstanding quality of the speakers and participants and for their many excellent contributions. The ELN is delighted to have further strengthened its engagement on European Defence issues as well its excellent partnership with the Federation of German Industries (BDI).

A Chatham House rule version of this fascinating discussion will be available shortly.